Edo State governor, Godwin Obaseki, has assured people of the state that the build-up to next year’s general election would not distract him from implementing his developmental agenda.

At the opening of a three-day retreat for members of his cabinet in Abuja, he acknowledged there would be intense politicking since both National Assembly and presidential primaries would be held this year.

He said such distractions shouldn’t be as an excuse as ministries, departments and agencies of government are expected to adhere to the implementation of their strategic plans for socio-economic development.

Obaseki explained that his resolve to sign the 2018 budget on January 21 was in line with his campaign promises to the people of the state.

He noted that the retreat, the second after the inaugural one held in Lagos six months earlier, would help cabinet members compare notes and proffer solutions.

He said his administration has set a target of at least 95 per cent performance level for the 2018 budget passed into law last December.

The budget estimate, pegged at N146 billion by the executive, was increased to N150 billion by the Edo House of Assembly, to make room for more projects.